Dear Businessmen and Investors,
During its history of thousands of years, Izmir had one of the most important ports of the Mediterranean Sea. Izmir has gained in importance and has become the most important exportation gate since the reign of Ottoman Empire. This has led to the creation of thorough trade tradition in Izmir. Tradesmen of Izmir have made imports from and exports to many countries all over the World for centuries. Izmir is the third largest city in our country in terms of economy and has maintained its important role both in Turkish and Mediterranean trade even after the Turkish republic was established.
Our Chamber which was set up in 1885 and which is now one of the most powerful and most established professional institutions of both our city and our country with more than 70 thousand members has become the most influential institution for the improvement of trade in Izmir. We place a special emphasis on foreign investors while we work with our experienced staff for the purpose of increasing the trade volume of our members and developing the economy of our city and country.
Our city is unique for all kinds of investment with its Alsancak Port where, more than 20% of foreign trade for Turkey is made. Its 19 Organized Industrial Zones, 2 Free Zones, 5 Universities, qualified work force and its people with a traditional indulgence coming down from the centuries, with a population of 3.5 million and its position as the actual capital of the Aegean Region and the gate of Turkey to the West make Izmir even more attractive for investment.
With its natural and historical beauty Izmir is among the most important centers of attraction in our country in terms of tourism. It is one of the first addresses to come into mind both for those who want to make tourism investment or those who want to spend a joyful holiday.
We define our Beautiful Izmir as "The Heaven of Investment and Tourism" thanks to such qualities as its habours.
For our Chamber, rendering all services to foreigners who make investment or carry out business in Izmir, helping them solve the problems they face and guiding them in the investments they want to make is considered as one of our most important tasks. We are also placing great emphasis on the promotion of our city and for this purpose we are preparing various documents for the investors and tourists.
In this guide, you will find information about the general services and the big projects provided by our Chamber as well as our activities to promote foreign trade and foreign investments, fair incentives and EU studies.
I would like to reiterate that our doors are always open to you for any queries or questions you may have, and hope that this guide will be of help to you in obtaining assistance from our Chamber.
I hope you have an enjoyable stay in Izmir.
Ekrem DEMİRTAŞ
Chairman of the Executive Board